Ivor Callely (Fianna Fail)

I support the call for a debate on Government policy and strategy on the aviation industry. I believe there may be some unfair practices in the industry, such as certain companies operating within tax free zones while others do not qualify and some aviation companies engaging employees in Ireland but placing them on a UK payroll. However, Ireland is held in high regard throughout the world in matters relating to aviation. We have a proven track record in leasing, engineering, maintenance and aviation college. North Dublin, where I have strong roots, is a natural hub which carries a particular incentive to attract aviation from throughout the world, which we enjoyed before and I believe we can enjoy again. When we look at competition throughout the world as we talk of the smart economy while being aware we have lost jobs even to Third World countries in this area, we have highly qualified people who meet the need. We need to review current Government policy and strategy and see where we are in relation to aviation. Is Shannon offering something more than north Dublin, for example? Can we do something that will be seen as Government policy and in the event, sell it to the world at large?